August 24, 2023
Happy Thursday,
Take Up Your Cross
“Then Jesus told his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.”- Matthew 16:24 ESV
Salvation is more than saying a prayer and shaking the Pastor’s hand. Not only do we have to turn away from our sins, but we must take up and carry the cross that God assigns to us.
Carrying our own cross is hard and often unpleasant. We want a smooth journey in this life. We want everything to be soft and easy. Truth is life is hard on its own. Serving God in a sinful word can be crushingly hard.
Yet, we have it easy compared to those who live in Countries where Christianity is illegal. Many people are in prisons living in horrid conditions because of their faith in Christ. Do we take the time to pray for these brothers and sisters in Christ? I must admit I forget to do so, often.
Let us take time today, to pray for those in this world who are suffering persecution for their belief in Christ.
Betty